Wintry Weather Means Reviewing Safe Driving Tips

It won't be long before the first snow squalls descend upon drivers navigating the highways in America's heartland. Already, big storms have pushed their way across the Great Lakes, dumping lake effect snow downwind, creating winter wonderland scenes wherever the frosty flakes have fallen.

Winter also means drivers should check that their cars are ready for all that the season has coming including the headlights which are often overlooked. "Preparing your vehicle for winter is critical for safe driving throughout the season," said Denise Champagne, marketing manager, OSRAM SYLVANIA. "It's important to make sure headlights are a part of seasonal maintenance."

As part of the company's campaign to educate drivers, the lighting manufacturer is recommending the following tips to help motorists prepare for winter's onslaught:

-- "Winterize" your vehicle. Change the engine lubricant to synthetic oil, change to winter wiper blades, flush your cooling system with fresh coolant/antifreeze, fill the washer fluid reservoir with de-icer washer fluid and carry an emergency safety kit.
-- Drive with your lights on. If daytime visibility is limited, turn on your headlights to be seen by other drivers. When traveling in snowy weather, remember to brush off your taillights, turn signals and headlamps.
-- Change headlights in pairs before they burn out. Most headlights dim up to 20 percent over time so evaluate yours every year for optimum performance. The end of daylight savings time is a perfect yearly reminder.
-- Upgrade to high performance halogen lighting. SYLVANIA SilverStar(R) ULTRA bulbs are up to 50 percent brighter and increase down road visibility by up to 40 percent when compared to worn standard bulbs. Studies have shown that whiter, brighter halogen lighting can improve reaction time, increase nighttime visibility and provide better roadside viewing.
-- Check headlight alignment. Misaligned headlights can be distracting and dangerous. Ask your auto service technician to align them for you.
-- Clean headlight lenses regularly. Wash headlight lenses when you wash your windshield. You'll see better at night and in poor weather conditions.
-- Make sure all vehicle lights are working. Have a friend turn on your headlights and signal lights while you walk around the outside of your vehicle.
-- Check your tire pressure regularly. Whether you park inside or outside, you will lose a pound of tire pressure for every 10 degrees of outside temperature change.
-- Adjust your speed. By decreasing your speed you allow yourself more time to respond in bad weather.
-- Brake carefully. When roads are slippery, brake in a straight line before a curve in the road. Lift your foot from the brake before you steer into a corner. This allows you to steer and not slide through the corner. Don't accelerate away from the corner until the steering wheel is again straight.

Forecasters are expecting that this winter will be more challenging than last, so make sure that your car is ready to face whatever conditions come your way!

Source: OSRAM SYLVANIA